Facebook will start live video for all users in the coming weeks

Facebook will make it possible for all users to broadcast live video via the social network in the coming weeks. The option will initially only be available via the iPhone app and will arrive immediately in the US, followed by the rest of the world.

Users can select a Live Video icon at Update Status for the live broadcasts. They can post a short description before broadcasting and see who is watching. Friends can comment on the videos that are displayed in real time.

After the live stream ends, the video will be saved in the timeline for later viewing, but users can also delete the file. Users can discover live broadcasts from friends and acquaintances in the News Feeds and subscribe to receive notifications of upcoming broadcasts, for example from well-known broadcasters.

With the service, Facebook is responding to the increasing popularity of live streaming on social media, including via Twitter’s Meerkat and Periscope. Facebook started testing the live functionality in December. Facebook promises to bring these to the Android app soon.